GRAND RAPIDS, MI — It’s hard to believe that 2013 has come and gone like a flash fry of veggies in a wok. Our most anticipated opening of the year, the Downtown Market, capitalized on the momentum by hosting 30,000 people the day it opened its doors to the public on Labor Day.

My wife, Elena, and I have been addicted to this dish ever since we noticed that our table was the only one in the restaurant missing this soul-satisfying dish a few years ago. This heaping portion of silky chicken, beef, shrimp and vegetable stir-fry is slathered over crispy dried noodles that soften to an al dente texture the longer the steaming sauce lingers on the platter. There’s magic in this dish that occurs when the combination of creamy, crunchy and salty characteristics collide to create an umami sensation that will make you want more … and more … and more.

Lakeshore locals have kept Phil’s a secret for years. It wasn’t until I was tipped by my in-laws this past summer to check the place out that I discovered, perhaps, the best overall restaurant on the Lakeshore. The broasted chicken is as legendary as the hoards of regulars who wait in line to experience the tasty dishes and potent martinis Phil’s specializes in.

You are in for an authentic Mexican treat once you set foot in this Boston Square joint that serves up some of the best Mexican dishes in the area. 7 Mares owner, Tina Santoya, is usually in the restaurant to greet every customer and provide insider scoops on her specialty dishes. At $1.89 a taco, you are guaranteed not to leave disappointed in the stomach or wallet.

Aperitivo is your kind of happy hour domicile if you’ve graduated from the sloppy beer joints serving fried foods and $2 You-Call-It’s. Grab a stool, select a glass of wine and indulge in the selection of cheeses as you watch market customers walk by with their warm baguettes from Field & Fire and fresh fish from Fish Lads.

The infiltration of authentic tacos into the Grand Rapids mainstream dining scene will continue to expand in 2014 with restaurateur Paul Lee’s neighborhood taco joint, Donkey Taqueria, leading the way. Unlike most of the best taco places in the area, Donkey provides a hip spot for the Wealthy Street neighborhood with its lofty space, garage door openings, and more importantly, alcoholic libations, something most taquerias don’t offer.

I don’t know why more people are not aware that former Tuscan Express chef Dan Chudick has a new gig in Eastown. Trattoria is next-door and shares the kitchen with its sister restaurant, Bombay Cuisine. Some of Chudicks’ signature dishes such as the sautéed octopus and tiramisu are back. But don’t stop there — almost anything that comes out of the tiny kitchen is legit Italian with some attitude. Just like its chef.

Founders Brewing, the godfather of West Michigan brewers, opened its super slick outdoor beer garden complete with fire pits and heat towers in 2013. Founders also added a retail store, more indoor seating, and the stellar Centennial Room, its private dining room and terrace that overlooks all the action in the beer garden.

2013 has been Chef Jenna’s breakout year. She’s been featured in magazines, newspapers, television, radio and everything in between. She is always one of the first chefs to graciously share her time and talent whenever local charities call on her for assistance. She is the living, breathing and passionate advocate of the culinary scene in West Michigan. The food at Amore Trattoria Italiana, which she and her husband operate, is a testimony to the comforts of Italian home cooking.

Grove may be the best value in town with its three courses for $30 offering, but don’t be fooled by that deal because Chef Pat Wise’s kitchen team backs it up with dishes that are layered with intricate flavor notes and Instagram-worthy presentations. I have made Grove my go-to restaurant when my foodie friends are visiting and I don’t see this changing anytime soon. Hands down, my Restaurant of the Year.